Long time Red Deerian Cindy Mandrusiak readies herself for the Dance Off

Cindy Mandrusiak was born and raised in Red Deer. Her family has been involved in local business for decades through ownership of KFC. When she was asked to make the commitment to be a member of the Sheraton Celebrity Dance Off’s “Class of 2018”, she said “no”. Then she laughed. Cindy is major supporter of many different groups and organizations in this region and she’s passionate about giving back. Her and professional dance partner Dale Tosczak were recently in rehearsal when we caught up to them to talk get their thoughts on how their partnership is working out and general feelings about the legacy that is being built with help from the funds raised this year – the Canada Games Celebration Plaza.

In Cindy’s own words:

“I am proud to be the mother of six wonderful grown children and Baba to seven beautiful grandchildren. I’ve been fortunate enough to carry on and run a business in Red Deer known as KFC, established 55 years ago by my parents, John and Mary Konopaki. I’m proud to say that this KFC business is now being operated by third generation. As a longstanding business in this community, we are dedicated to supporting our community events through local charities, sporting events and many more. We believe in giving back to the community what they have given us over the 55 years.What an opportunity Red Deer has to host the 2019 Canada Winter Games. It made sense to give my personal time to raise money for such a great cause. I am thrilled to be a part of this prestigious event and I’m ready to get my dancing shoes on!”

It’s about Legacy- Ron and Cari MacLean talk about Canada Games Celebration Plaza

Native son and Red Deer uber-ambassador Ron MacLean and his wife Cari are serving as Co-chairs of the 2019 Canada Winter Games. Both grew up in the city and are committed to not only making the games as successful as possible, but are also really excited about the legacy that will be left behind. From upgrades to the old arena, new traffic circles, interchanges and road improvements to the RDC’s Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre and the Celebration Plaza.

In this video Ron and Cari share some of their thoughts on the long term impact of the Canada Games Celebration Plaza, a legacy project of the 2019 CWG. Though we don’t touch on it in this video, Cari is also one of the Class of 2018 and will be dancing in this year’s Sheraton Celebrity Dance Off. You can help with her fundraising efforts by clicking right here to donate.

The Canada Games Celebration Plaza will be home to festival programming during the Games and will provide a long-term celebration space in the heart of the city.

Central Elementary School, built in 1939, is one of Red Deer’s most significant historical sites. It 2009 it received a Statement of Significance by Heritage Collaborative for The City of Red Deer. Built in Art Deco Style, the school is also significant for its association with the theme of Red Deer’s development as a regional centre.

Canada Games Celebration Plaza will become a focal point in downtown Red Deer. A Plaza, Park, Art, Culture, Celebration, Entertainment, Festivals… This is a special place where Central Albertans will gather for decades to come.